Lamine Yamal is a star player in the Spanish team announced by coach Luis de la Fonte on Monday for the World Cup. Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino, who returned from injury, has also been included in the team.

This will be the first World Cup where the Spanish team does not include Real Madrid players. Real Madrid defenders Dean Huysen have been dropped, while veteran Dani Carvajal, who has spent the season struggling with injuries, has also not been included in the team. De la Fonte said that he does not care who the player comes from or where he comes from.

Merino, a favorite of coach de la Fonte, entered the field as a substitute in the 62nd minute of Arsenal's match against Crystal Palace on Sunday. It is his first match since January since picking up a foot injury.

De la Fonte has also included Barcelona's Eric Garcia and Atletico Madrid's Mars Pubil, who have been impressive this season, in the squad, leaving Huysen and Atletico's Robin Le Normand out of the squad.

Barcelona's 18-year-old Yamal and Athletic Bilbao's Nico Williams, who have played a key role in Spain's Euro 2024 title, have been given regular places in the national team after struggling with fitness issues throughout the season. Yamal has not played since the last week of April due to a hamstring injury. It is doubtful whether he will play his first World Cup match.

Yamal is one of eight Barcelona players in the Spanish squad. Barcelona midfielders Gavi and Pedri and goalkeeper Yoan Garcia are in the Spanish team. “We are coordinating with the health departments of all the clubs,” coach De La Fonte said while announcing the squad. “According to their reports, all our players will be ready for the first or second match.”

Gavi, who has been out of action for a long time, returned in March due to a knee injury. He has been impressive for Barcelona since then. Yamal posted a video on social media of Gavi getting emotional and celebrating during a gym session in Barcelona during the Spain squad announcement.